Carlton McGee

Review of The Lexington Center and Rupp ...

I give one star, but put a minus sign in front of ...

I give one star, but put a minus sign in front of that star. FIRST: To improve, they need a claim check area for items they decide cannot be permitted. SECOND: I have checked before going, and did not see mention of certain issues. FIRST STORY: My daughters high school graduation was at Rupp arena. Lafayette HS. I am a photographer, so I always carry a basic kit. Part of which is a small convertible tripod. In this instance a Manfrotto. Stopped me from going in with it, and said that I could leave it at the gate, but that it might or might not be at the gate when I came back. So I solved the issue by removing the tripod, opening a leg, breaking it, and putting it in the garbage can. They were shocked. But I decided that was better than theft. The lady herself was trying to be nice. But the other person was not. This was 3 years ago. !!!SECOND STORY!!!!: This year my wife was given tickets for a UK exhibition basketball game at Rupp Arena. I am disabled and I have to use a fold out cane for when I find myself in line, or have to stand for more than a few minutes, or when I have been walking and then my body says stop and relieve the nerve pressure and pain. We are in line, and I am stopped and told that I cannot take my cane with me. After a short discussion I get very angry and say something like fine, if a handicap person is not wanted, I will leave. I turn and walk off, then realize my wife is still speaking to them. So I find find a spot, fold out my cane and then sit and wait for her. She then comes over with another person and they take us to the service gate. I am asked what I am going to use my cane for? Really????? Then: Where are you going to put it? Answer: In front of my legs when seated in the stadium. Then I pull out my VA card that says Service Connected DIsability to prove that I am disabled. After more discussion I am permitted thru. I was humiliated and furious. I will never go back. I will never watch a UK game or buy a UK item. I will never go to any event at Rupp/Heritage Hall. I suppose I am in the minority on this one. But this was insane on their part. The fold out cane in case you are curious is the Harvy Quad Seat Cane. An ink pen would make a better weapon. Oh, and if they are concerned about violence at an event, then they should prohibit alcohol. I don't want an apology, or gifts, or anything from them. I just hope they show the next person some maturity and respect.